The SA Government has achieved a significant milestone by partnering with ATCO Australia to secure a contract with GE Vernova for supplying advanced hydrogen-capable gas turbines. These turbines will be used in the new Whyalla hydrogen power plant, marking a major progression in South Australia’s Hydrogen Jobs Plan.
Announced against the backdrop of COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, this agreement ensures South Australia remains at the cutting edge of renewable energy technology. Peter Malinauskas is currently in Azerbaijan to bid for Adelaide to host COP31, the United Nations Conference of the Parties on Climate Change.
The Whyalla plant will be equipped with the world’s first LM6000VELOX aeroderivative gas turbines from GE Vernova. These turbines are uniquely engineered to operate entirely on renewable hydrogen.
South Australia’s entry into hydrogen energy is supported by its abundant wind and solar resources, which allow for the sustainable production and storage of renewable hydrogen. This hydrogen will be used to power the LM6000VELOX turbines, supplying reliable and clean energy to the state’s electricity grid.
The planned commissioning of the turbines is set for early 2026. This project will also become the first commercial-scale implementation of GE Vernova’s power technology using aeroderivative gas turbine combustion technology operating solely on hydrogen.
The Whyalla hydrogen plant is projected to generate 200 megawatts (MW) of power. Its role is crucial in providing stable power support to the electricity grid of South Australia, particularly during times when solar and wind energy generation is low.
Premier Peter Malinauskas said, “South Australia is at the forefront of the global shift to clean energy, and our investment in 100% hydrogen-capable technology at Whyalla sets a new standard for what’s possible.”
“This partnership with GE Vernova, through ATCO Australia, brings us one step closer to a future powered by zero-emission hydrogen, positioning South Australia as a leader in renewable energy innovation.”
“By integrating this world-first technology, we are not only supporting our state’s energy security but also creating a blueprint for sustainable, hydrogen-fuelled power that the rest of the world can follow.”
John Ivulich, CEO and Country Chair of ATCO Australia, also remarked on the region’s renewable capabilities, saying “With more than 75 percent of energy generated from renewable resources, South Australia is set to become a global leader in producing and utilising renewable hydrogen.”
Echoing these sentiments, Eric Gray, CEO of GE Vernova’s Gas Power business, referred to the ongoing research and development in enhancing GE’s combustion systems to higher hydrogen tolerance. “We are proud to unveil our first 100 percent hydrogen-ready aeroderivative gas turbine solution to support our customers’ decarbonisation goals while maintaining grid reliability,” Gray said.
This partnership aligns with the South Australian Government’s aspirations under the Hydrogen Jobs Plan. The state is committed to becoming a hub for renewable energy innovation by investing in technology that supports a transition to a hydrogen economy.
The Whyalla project promises to create significant employment opportunities and catalyse the region’s transition towards an ecologically sustainable future.
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